Behind the steel: How design flexibility is redefining metal buildings

By Jesse Sanchez.

Custom aesthetics meet function in the evolving world of metal construction.

In this episode of MetalCast™, host Karen Edwards sat down with Central States Manufacturing leaders Jennifer Davis and Ahmed Abdelaal who peeled back the layers of what makes today’s pre-engineered metal buildings (PEMBs) more than just utilitarian shells. As the industry shifts from standard storage units to dynamic, mixed-material buildings, Jennifer and Ahmed explained how customization and creativity are playing a bigger role than ever before.

“We have some that are quite innovative that are using materials in different ways,” said Jennifer, president of Central States Manufacturing. “Whether it’s how we orient the materials on the building, the mix of materials, the use of metal with other materials like stone or brick or timber to enhance the look... we retain a degree of flexibility in working with our clients to get them what they need.”

What once may have been limited to simple barns or warehouses is now a canvas for community buildings, retail storefronts and even barndominiums. “Sometimes you cannot even tell that the building is made of steel,” said Ahmed, vice president of engineering and operations. “You think it’s all made of wood, all made of glass, but the skeleton is made of steel.”

This aesthetic evolution, they note, isn’t just about looks — it’s a business imperative. Clients now expect architectural creativity alongside structural integrity and Central States Manufacturing has adapted its process to support that. With 11 factories and the flexibility to meet varied design requests, the company is producing custom kits that blend decorative elements with speed and reliability.

Jennifer added, “Because we operate 11 factories across the country that make metal building components, we're able to respond quite nimbly to requests for innovative materials or different colors or things that would enhance the end aesthetic.”

What’s driving this demand for tailored metal buildings? A broader understanding that steel is ideal for out-of-the-box design ideas. As Jennifer put it, “We have some application that are quite innovative that are using materials in different ways... whether it's how we orient the materials on the building, the mix of materials, the use of metal with other materials like stone or brick or timber to enhance the look.” Ahmed added, “The nature of business today forces us to change our mindset that everything can be done from steel, whether it's a steel for fabrication or a steel for a mall, strip mall or whatever. Everything can be done through steel.”  

Read the transcript, Listen to the podcast or Watch the webinar to learn more about how Central States is reshaping what a metal building can be — and what it means for the future of construction!